The Dance Photography Workshop experience

So, yesterday I ran my third Dance Photography Workshop. I have to say, it's definitely the most enjoyable thing on my timetable these days. It allows me to work with one of my very favourite skills, in a sociable and fun environment.

This time around I had eight participants - I'm cautiously building up the numbers gradually, so as to avoid a situation where anyone is missing out on adequate shooting time, but it seems that everyone is pretty happy with their experiences so far - the feedback has all been really positive.

We were very lucky to have my good friend Samuel Maxted to start things off. Sam is a truly superb young ballet dancer, currently completing his BA (Dance) at WAAPA whilst working with the WA Ballet. On top of being a superb dancer, AND extremely beautiful and athletic, he's ALSO the nicest guy to work with, and a really positive energy to have in the room. He worked really hard for all the photographers despite the heat, and many the images I've seen from the participants so far are fantastic.

For the remainder of the day, we worked with contemporary dancers Shuling Wong and Kate Jenkins, also current WAAPA students. Shuling is a favourite of mine for her delightful, playful character and humour, combined with creativity and grace. It was actually Kate's first dance shoot, and despite her trepidation, she really shone and produced some really impressive work.

Whilst Sam was in the studio, Shu & Kate spent a couple of hours with makeup artist Larissa Nguyen, who created some stunning looks for them - so the images resulting from the shoots will have that extra layer of polish.

The next dance photography workshop is scheduled for March 4th, 2012. Book early!

Some examples from the participants' work.. these images courtesy of Noel English and Sally Wittenoom.